Today, we’re facing a crisis that could leave thousands of families without access to food during the holidays.
As you may have heard, the federal government shutdown has halted SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits — commonly known as food stamps — effective November 1. Nearly one in 10 Phoenix-area families rely on SNAP to put food on the table, and the ripple effects of this disruption will reach far beyond the checkout line. If the shutdown continues, school meal programs and other essential supports could also be affected. The result will be unprecedented levels of food insecurity in households already struggling to make ends meet.
Valley of the Sun United Way is mobilizing with our partners through our SNAP Into Action initiative to respond quickly and effectively. Together with food banks across the Valley, we are working to fill immediate gaps through snack-pack builds, emergency food drives, and volunteer efforts that deliver help directly to families who need it most.
But we cannot do it alone.
We are asking our corporate and community partners to step forward once again — just as many of you did during the pandemic — to help us bridge this critical moment. Every dollar, every box of food, and every hour volunteered helps stretch limited resources further and ensure no family is left hungry this holiday season. For a list of local food banks, pantries, and meal sites, visit vsuw.org/SNAPsupport.
If your organization can provide emergency food support, host a drive, or mobilize volunteers, please reach out to Katie Frederick, Volunteer Engagement Director at kfrederick@vsuw.org to get involved. You can also direct families in need to 2-1-1 Arizona, our community resource line for food and other essential assistance.
Thank you for standing with us and for your unwavering commitment to our community. Together, we can help ensure that every family in Arizona has food on the table this holiday season.
